Metal-enhanced fluorescence exciplex emission

In this letter, we report the first observation of metal-enhanced exciplex fluorescence, observed from anthracene in the presence of diethylaniline. Anthracene in the presence of diethylaniline in close proximity to Silver Island Films (SIFs) shows enhanced monomer and exciplex emission as compared to a non-silvered control sample containing no silver nanoparticles. Our findings suggest two complementary methods for the enhancement: (i) surface plasmons can radiate coupled monomer and exciplex fluorescence efficiently, and (ii) enhanced absorption (enhanced electric near-field) further facilitates enhanced emission. Our exciplex studies help us to further understand the complex photophysics of the metal-enhanced fluorescence technology.

Metal-enhanced exciplex formation studied using Silver island films to enhance both monomer and complex (exciplex) formation in the near-field.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► The first observation of metal-enhanced exciplex fluorescence.
► The first study of enhanced monomer and exciplex emission.
► Enhanced absorption attributed the enhanced emission.
► The emission is both surface plasmon coupled and radiated by the nanoparticles.